Islam - Important Practices and Customs

Important Practices and Customs

• Muslims are required to pray five times a day, facing Mecca.
• Muslims fast during Ramadan, which occurs in the Islamic calendar, for about a month.
• Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha annually, important religious festivals.
• Muslims often give Zakat, a form of charity, to help the poor.
• Some Muslims may travel to Saudi Arabia for the Hajj pilgrimage once in their lifetime.
• Muslims tend to eat halal food, which means it has been prepared according to religious guidelines.
• Every Friday, Muslims gather for Jummah prayers, which are conducted in large congregations, usually at mosques.
• Muslims do not eat pork or meat that has not been prepared in a halal manner.
• Some Muslim women may not shake hands or engage in conversation with the opposite sex without a family member present.
• Muslims should not be interrupted during prayer, as it is a time of deep focus and devotion.
• Modesty in dress is important for both Muslim men and women, particularly in the presence of strangers or visitors.
• Many practicing Muslims abstain from alcohol.